Cornell Notes
Mini lesson
What can good readers do when
they read a word they don’t know?
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Look for example clues
Look for contrast/antonym clues
Look for keyword clues
Look for definition/explanation
Look for restatement clues
These clues are often referred to by Context Clues!
Example Clues
 Examples of similar types can be excellent clues to the
word’s meaning.
 Example: When our neighbors travel, they always look
for comfortable accommodations, such as a beach
cottage, hotel suite, or mountain cabin.
 Using clues we can conclude that the word
accommodation means “a place to stay.” The word such
as signal that the list of places to stay provide examples
of accommodation.
Contrast/ Antonyms Clues
 Look for words or phrases that are the opposite of a
word’s meaning.
 Example: Knowledge is a remedy for many
environmental problems, but knowledge without
action cannot cure the ills.
 From the context, readers can conclude that remedy
means “cure.” The word but signals that remedy
contrast with the phrase “cannot cure.”
Keyword Clues
 Look for words or phrases that modify or are related to
the unfamiliar word.
 Example: The two characters in my story believe it is
their destiny to be enemies. Their elders have taught
them that this is meant to be.
 Using clues, readers can tell that destiny means
“something that necessarily happens to a person.” the
words meant to be signal the meaning of the word.
Definition/ Explanation Clues
 A sentence may actually define or explain an
unfamiliar word.
 Example: Alan will help the woman once she escapes
and becomes a fugitive from her troubled country.
 From the context, readers can tell that fugitive means
"runaway.” The words escapes signals the meaning of
the word.
Restatement clues

Look for words and phrases that define an unfamiliar
word.
 Example:
The dried rose was fragile as a butterfly. In other
words, its delicate petals can be damaged easily.

The phrase in other words signals that the words
easily damaged restate the meaning of the word
fragile. These are often great clues to help readers.
Review
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Good readers use clues when they read. Look for
these clues when you come across a new word that
you do not know.
Look for example clues
Look for contrast/antonym clues
Look for keyword clues
Look for definition/explanation
Look for restatement clues
Now try to use your new skill.
 Example:
 Another problem is that her eyes are luminous; they
glow in the dark, so she stays hidden after twilight.
 What context clues can you use from the sentence to
determine meaning?
Use your context clues!
 Example:
 Star Trek: The Next Generation also gave key roles to
aliens and androids. At first sight, Worf is a ghastly
being, but fans love his frightful appearance.
Use your context clues!
 Example
 They try very hard to avert disaster and save their
planets.
Use your context clues!
 Example
 No one likes to feel that his or her way of doing things
has become old-fashioned, or obsolete, like a horsedrawn carriage.
Use your context clues!
 Example
 Writers for TV must deliberate about what to include.
Different age groups and time slots are among the
consideration that must be carefully thought out.
Summarize what you’ve learned!
 Write a summary to explain to someone who may have
been absent today. What are context clues in your
OWN words!